Traffic rules

Belgium has a very well-developed and high-quality road network. However, it is also very strict regarding breaking traffic rules, especially speed limits. Here are some tips on how to visit Belgium without being fined.

Speed limits

Speed checks are very common in Belgium. Police and automatic speed cameras measure speed on selected road sections and in tunnels. Always obey the speed limit; otherwise, a fine is almost certain.

Speed limits
Highways 120 km/h
Roads 90 km/h
Cities 50 km/h

Vignette/tolls

Good news for you! Cars up to 3.5 tonnes do not pay any tolls or charges on motorways in Belgium. 

Alcohol limit

• The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 mg/ml, which is equivalent to 0.22 mg of alcohol in a breath test. If the police measure a breath alcohol level of 0.22 - 0.35 mg, they consider it suspicious and are entitled to ask you to repeat the test after 15 minutes. 
• A result above 0.35 mg of alcohol in the breath is considered positive. Again, the police will ask you to repeat the test after 15 minutes. You will have your blood drawn if the retest shows a positive result. 
• The critical threshold at which the police will suspend your licence is considered to be 0.65 mg of alcohol in your blood. Police officers can suspend your licence for up to 15 days, and you could also face a court case and a long-term driving ban. 
• Don’t drive on the road unless you are sure you are below the limit. 

What to do when you´re fined

The police in Belgium are very serious, uncompromising, and strict. Do not argue about the amount of the fine, and never try to bribe a police officer! 

Always pay the fine, even if you receive it late from the automatic speed check system. The next time you visit Belgium, you could face a higher penalty and even the confiscation of your car.